Azaleas may be either semi-evergreen or deciduous. Deciduous azaleas drop all of their leaves in the fall. In dry weather, they may drop their leaves earlier than usual. Their leaves then grow back in the spring. Semi-evergreen azaleas also drop their leaves. However, they appear to be evergreen because they grow two sets of leaves each year. Their spring leaves are thinner, larger, and grow along the stems, and drop off in the fall. Their summer leaves are thicker, smaller, grow crowded at the branch ends, and remain through the winter. They remain for several years on some varieties. In colder climates or extremely cold weather, evergreen azaleas may drop most of their leaves during the winter. On the other hand, if the leaves are dropping when the plant should be blooming, the problem may be overwatering, under watering or too much fertilizer. Overwatering: Place your finger in the soil at least 1/2 inches. If the soil is wet, the plant needs no water. If it is dry, then water it. If the azalea was recently planted, dig it up and check the rootball for moisture. The roots should be firm and crisp. Brown and mushy roots may indicate too much water. Underwatering While azaleas do not like wet feet, they do like to keep their roots moist. This may require supplemental watering through early fall, at least until plants are established in the ground for a few years. Adequate water after bloom helps to produce more flower buds for next year. An infrequent deep soaking is more effective than superficial sprinkling. Fertilizing Established azaleas do not need fertilizer. To avoid inducing new growth which may be killed in the winter, fertilize in late winter or early spring; never after July 1st. Note that florist azaleas are not hardy in central Illinois and should not be planted outdoors for survival. However, they can be cared for as a regular blooming houseplant.
